Production of Detergent from Castor Seed and Optimization of Parameters Affecting Its Productivity

Abstract

This project work was to carry out with the objective of extraction of oil from castor seeds and its utilization to produce a synthetic detergent. The detergent production was obtained from castor beans by using pre-treatment of castor seed, extraction of castor oil, neutralization and sulphation methods. Chemical extraction method was employed in extracting the oil and the total percent oil yield was 38%. The detergent efficiency was determined as a measure of the foamability of the detergent. The pH tests revealed mildly basic properties. The colour, scent and efficiency of the detergent were improved with the addition of bleaching agent, perfume and foaming agents respectively. The result obtained for the extraction showed an average percent oil extracted was 38%. This value is low relative to the literature; using N-hexane 46% up to 55% oil was extracted. The low yield was attributed to the nature of the seeds and difference in solvent. Moreover, the sulphation and neutralization gave a powered detergent of high enough efficiently as seen from the result of the foamability test. Usually, the efficiency of washing power was assessed through the amount of foam its capability of producing. The presence of persistent foam exemplifies a good detergent. The foam height of 2.5cm persisted for about 4 minutes and this is good relative to the literature 2.6cm with the standard value. The detergent formed was the result of esterification of the castor oil.